Zach Van Horn and Ben Grzenia discuss glitch aesthetics, layering, and creative process in artcritical prize interview

Zach Van Horn and Ben Grzenia jointly received the 2018 artcritical prize through faculty voting at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts. Both artists were completing their MFA degrees at PAFA when selected for this honor, which includes publication of an interview. Van Horn explained his artistic approach involves cutting and collaging his own paintings, a technique influenced by digital glitches and technological distortions. He described how mistranslations in code inspire his process, which he views as following a set of rules that can be altered from piece to piece. The artist revealed that working with video and music has deepened his understanding of layering, allowing dramatic experimentation without permanent consequences. Sanding paintings represents a significant creative leap for Van Horn, who found inspiration in Mark Bradford's work while overcoming initial hesitation about destroying built-up layers. Regarding audience engagement, Van Horn creates visually complex works intended to capture attention in an era dominated by digital images and social media. He hopes his paintings provide enough information for viewers to develop their own interpretations while functioning independently as complete artworks.